Pedro Neto could face an extended suspension after being charged by the Football Association. Winger Neto is accused of exiting the pitch in an "improper manner" and using "abusive words" towards the match officials following his red card during Chelsea's Premier League loss at Arsenal on Sunday.
This presents another disciplinary issue for Chelsea, who have seen nine different players receive red cards this season, a situation that threatens to destabilise their campaign. Neto received a yellow card for showing dissent towards referee Darren England after Arsenal's winning goal was scored by Jurrien Timber. Just four minutes later, Neto was dismissed for a clear foul on Gabriel Martinelli, halting the Arsenal winger's run down the flank.
However, Neto was incensed upon leaving the pitch, launching into a tirade against the officials at the touchline during his protracted exit before finally heading down the tunnel.
The Football Association statement released today read: "Pedro Neto has been charged after being sent off in the 70th minute of the Premier League fixture between Chelsea FC and Arsenal FC on Sunday 1 March.
"It's alleged that the player acted in an improper manner by failing to leave the pitch promptly; and/or used abusive words towards the match official/s. Pedro Neto has until Monday 9 March to provide a response."
Earlier this campaign, Tottenham captain Cristian Romero received an extra one-match ban after failing to promptly leave the pitch against Liverpool in December.
Former West Ham star Lucas Paqueta faced charges following a similar incident against Liverpool in November but avoided an additional suspension, receiving only a caution.
Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior spoke with conviction after the match about the need to strengthen the club's disciplinary standards following a spate of recent dismissals.
Rosenior said: "I think as a group, me as the leader as well, we have to take more accountability for some of the decision-making we're having in terms of our discipline and in terms of the moments of the goals, not just today, the goals we conceded.
"Some of them are just not acceptable at this level. You can fine players. But it's a focus and a concentration thing that we need to get right. I know the record of the club is not great from the start of the season, and now it's getting bad."